State security is a key mandate for the Armed Forces which relies heavily on up-to-date, real-time information. Communication is key to any such operations and the ability to transfer information between various units in a timely and secure manner, especially in military deployments, is most significant given the sensitivity of the activities being conducted.
Driven to a significant degree by the fact that AFM Units were being deployed further afield in support of both national and international deployments, last year the AFM launched a new Integrated Communications System (ICS) that significantly enhanced its ability to exercise command and control of AFM Units regardless of where they were deployed.
The new solution was delivered by Israel-based Aeronautics Defence Systems Ltd together with local partners Hawk Aerospace Ltd. Local company, Medcomms Ltd were also brought on board for the installation of the communications equipment.
Today, a year on from the implementation of the system, Lt Col. Andrew Mallia, Staff Officer at Maritime Operations of the AFM could not be more pleased with the increased levels of efficiency they have been experiencing as a result.
Based on components of Israeli, Australian, European and US origin, the new system is installed upon aircrafts, vehicles, and vessels within the AFM as well as being available for use by individual soldiers.
One of the main changes the new system brought about was the introduction of data transmission. Whereas the old solution was limited to voice transmission, the new solution now allows the AFM to transmit data including documents, written orders, pictures and in some cases even video. “We are now able to achieve real time intelligence, meaning a faster identification process during operations. For instance if we need to identify a ship during a patrol we take a photo, send it over the system to HQ, they identify the ship and send back the information. Before, we would need to bring the photos to shore for identification.” Lt Col. Andrew Mallia.
The new system also allows for tracking of AFM units when deployed permitting command elements to have constant situational awareness and thus allowing them to deploy units in the most efficient and effective way.
Scalability was also an issue with the old communications system as hardware limitations meant more money had to be invested in order to keep up with constant development on the technology front. “The new ICS was developed on an integrated, secure and interoperable communications infrastructure that supports systems growth and upgrades. One of the mandates was that we build a solution that is also compatible with legacy equipment and systems operated by international partners.” Mr Roger Xuereb Archer, Director at Hawk Aerospace Ltd.
Elements of the system have already been deployed overseas and have proven simple to use and flexible. “Moreover, whereas with the old communication system communications were unencrypted, this new solution is fully encrypted giving us far more security. The communication equipment is also now interoperable with other local and foreign agencies and forces.” Lt Col. Andrew Mallia.
“This project was incredibly interesting and challenging. We are extremely pleased with the outcome. The first year of implementation has been incredibly smooth. We had great partners on board and the team worked well together and were able to successfully deliver this project in eight months.” commented Mr Xuereb Archer, Hawk Aerospace Ltd.
Aeronautics Defence Systems Ltd is an Israeli based company which specializes in providing comprehensive defence Solutions. Aeronautics has established itself as a primary global provider of security consulting services and defence applications bringing together the most experienced and qualified team of experts in the industry.
Hawk Aerospace was set-up in 2004 in order to provide high-end technology solutions for the aviation, defence, space, homeland security and oil and gas industry. Their comprehensive portfolio of solutions and services deliver enhanced customer value through innovations that make flights and aerospace operations safer, more reliable and more cost-effective.